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New York State Insurance Definitions

Understanding Insurance Terms Made Simple

Insurance policies can contain unfamiliar words and industry terminology that make it difficult to understand exactly what your coverage provides.

At Eastern Insuring Agency, we believe informed clients make better insurance decisions. This guide explains many of the most common insurance terms used in personal, commercial, and life insurance policies.

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PLEASE NOTE:

These definitions are intended for educational purposes only and may not replace the specific language contained within your insurance policy. Coverage varies by insurance carrier, policy form, endorsements, and applicable New York State insurance regulations.

POPULAR INSURANCE TERMS

ABCD (1)

POPULAR INSURANCE TERMS

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Actual Cash Value (ACV)

The value of damaged or lost property after depreciation has been applied.

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Additional Insured

A person or organization added to an insurance policy who receives certain coverage under that policy.

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Bodily Injury Liability

Coverage that helps pay for injuries to another person if you are legally responsible.

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Certificate of Insurance (COI)

A document verifying insurance coverage and policy limits.

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Claim

A request submitted to an insurance company for payment after a covered loss.

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Coinsurance

A policy provision requiring property to be insured for a specified percentage of its value.

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Comprehensive Coverage

Auto insurance covering losses from theft, vandalism, fire, hail, falling objects, animal strikes, and other non-collision events.

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Deductible

The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins paying.

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Replacement Cost

The cost to repair or replace damaged property using materials of similar kind and quality without deducting for depreciation.

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Endorsement

A written amendment that changes, adds, or removes coverage from an insurance policy.

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New York Auto Insurance Terms

No-fault insurance, PIP, SUM, liability coverage, and more.

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Homeowners Insurance Terms

Dwelling coverage, personal property, loss of use, and more.

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Commercial Insurance Terms

General liability, workers' comp, cyber liability, and more.

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Life Insurance
Terms

Beneficiary, cash value, term life, whole life, and more.

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Have Questions About Your Coverage?

Understanding insurance shouldn't be confusing. Our experienced advisors are here to explain your policy and answer your questions.

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